Palm Kernel Expeller (PKE): High-Value Feed Ingredient for Poultry & Dairy Farmers
In today’s competitive livestock industry, farmers are always searching for sustainable, affordable, and high-nutrient feed ingredients. One such ingredient that has gained significant attention worldwide is Palm Kernel Expeller (PKE). Derived from the mechanical extraction of oil from palm kernel seeds, PKE is recognized as an excellent feed ingredientfor poultry, dairy, and beef cattle due to its high fiber content, digestible energy, and cost efficiency.
What is Palm Kernel Expeller (PKE)?
Palm Kernel Expeller, also known as Palm Kernel Cake (PKC), is a by-product of the palm oil extraction process. After the oil is pressed out from the palm kernel, the remaining residue is processed into a granular, brownish meal rich in protein and fiber.
PKE is widely produced in major palm oil-producing countries like Indonesia and Malaysia, and it is one of the most exported animal feed ingredients to markets such as New Zealand, South Korea, and the Middle East.
Nutritional Composition of PKE
PKE provides a balanced source of nutrients that make it suitable for livestock feed formulations:
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Crude Protein: 14–18%
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Crude Fiber: 10–18%
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Oil Content: 8–10% (residual)
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Metabolizable Energy (ME): 1800–2000 kcal/kg
This composition makes PKE a valuable ingredient for ruminants like dairy cattle and beef cows, while also serving as a supplemental feed for poultry. Its high fiber level promotes rumen health in cattle, and the moderate protein helps improve milk yield and meat growth.
Benefits of Using PKE in Animal Feed
1. Cost-Effective Feed Option
PKE is often more affordable than soybean meal or corn-based feed. For farmers managing large-scale poultry or dairy operations, PKE helps reduce feed costs while maintaining good animal performance.
2. Sustainable and Environmentally Friendly
As a by-product of palm oil production, PKE supports the circular economy by utilizing waste materials efficiently. Choosing PKE as part of animal feed contributes to sustainable farming practices.
3. Improves Milk and Meat Quality
For dairy farmers, supplementing cattle diets with PKE can improve milk fat content and overall productivity. Meanwhile, for poultry, it can help in enhancing feed conversion efficiency when combined with other protein sources.
4. Rich in Digestible Fiber and Energy
PKE’s fiber promotes healthy digestion in ruminants and provides steady energy for daily growth and production.
How Poultry and Dairy Farmers Use PKE
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For Dairy Cows: Usually mixed with grass silage or corn silage. Farmers feed PKE up to 3–5 kg per cow per day depending on energy requirements.
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For Poultry: Used as part of a balanced formulation with maize, rice bran, or soybean meal. It is recommended to use up to 10% inclusion in the total diet.
Proper formulation ensures that animals receive the right balance of energy, protein, and fiber without reducing feed efficiency.
Global Demand for PKE
Palm Kernel Expeller has seen rising global demand, especially in countries with strong dairy industries like New Zealand. The growing popularity of sustainable feed options has positioned PKE as a strategic export commodity from Southeast Asia.
Indonesian suppliers, in particular, are known for providing high-quality, low-moisture PKE suitable for long-distance shipment and consistent feed performance.
Why Choose Indonesian PKE?
Indonesia, one of the world’s largest palm oil producers, offers a reliable supply of Palm Kernel Expeller with competitive prices and strict quality control. The product is typically screened, sun-dried, and packed in bulk or bags, ready for export worldwide.
For poultry and dairy farmers seeking a balance between performance, cost, and sustainability, Indonesian PKE stands out as an ideal choice.
Conclusion
Palm Kernel Expeller (PKE) has proven itself as a high-value feed ingredient for both poultry and dairy farmers. Its nutritional profile, affordability, and sustainability make it a practical solution in modern livestock feeding systems.
Whether you are running a dairy farm or managing poultry production, incorporating Palm Kernel Expeller into your feed formulation can enhance animal health, productivity, and profitability—all while supporting environmentally responsible agriculture.
